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FAQs: Medication-Assisted Addiction Treatment

Medication-assisted addiction treatment is a form of therapy utilizing FDA-approved medications to improve a user’s chance of achieving a successful recovery. While this method is controversial, the caring counselors at BRIGHTSIDE Clinic in Northbrook, Tinley Park, and North Aurora, Illinois are here to discuss everything you need to know about this form of treatment and what it entails.

Common Medication-Assisted Addiction Treatment Questions

1. How Does the Treatment Work?

The main obstacle preventing an addict from staying clean is the craving for the substance, even months or years after recovery. To help reduce the risk of a relapse, therapists use a combination of medications with mild opioid effects as a form of treatment.

2. What Are the Different Types of Medications Used?

The most common types of medications used in this form of therapy include buprenorphine, methadone, and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist while methadone is a full agonist, which is why it’s typically prescribed to addicts with a higher tolerance, as it doesn’t have a ceiling effect.

3. What Are the Benefits of this Addiction Treatment?

One of the main advantages of this form of treatment is that while they can fulfill an addict’s cravings, they cannot be taken to achieve the full effect of an opioid. This makes it difficult to abuse and can be used to slowly wean an addict off of opioids and increase their chances of a successful recovery.

4. Are There Any Side Effects I Should Know About?

Common side effects of these medications may include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and irritability. It’s also important to note that the patient must undergo behavioral therapy to ensure they are making the most of this treatment.

If you or a loved one are suffering from an opioid addiction and want to learn more about medication-assisted addiction treatment, turn to the therapists at BRIGHTSIDE Clinic.

If you or someone you love is in need of drug addiction treatment near Elgin, St. Charles or Des Plaines, Illinois, speak with a member of the Brightside Clinic team about your options.